_edited.png){kind=small}
Steel Strong
At UK Steelers, we believe community is more than cheering on the same team; it’s showing up for each other when life gets tough.
Steel Strong is a dedicated space where members of our Black & Gold family share their personal stories with mental health, reminding us all that nobody has to face life alone.
This community exists because we care about each other. Not just on game day, but in real life too. If you ever feel overwhelmed, low, or simply need someone to talk to, it’s okay to reach out.
​
You can Steel An Ear of any of the following admins in confidence:
Laura Casey (Mental Health First Aider)
Jason Bowdler
Lee Matthews
Phil Bridge
​
Whether you’re looking for support, guidance, or just a listening ear, we’re here for you, without judgement and with complete respect for your privacy.
Here you’ll also find signposts to trusted mental health organisations, helplines, and tools that can offer support when you or someone you care about needs it most.
If you ever feel overwhelmed, please know: you are valued, you matter, and help is always within reach.
Our Member's Stories
Use the arrows to hear stories from our members on their mental health journeys and the different ways they have found strength in the UK Steelers community.
Immediate Support
If you’re struggling right now, please know that you’re not alone and support is available 24/7.
These organisations offer confidential, non-judgemental help whenever you need it:
​
Samaritans (UK) – 116 123
Free, confidential helpline available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, lonely, or just need someone to talk to, Samaritans are there to listen.
​
Mind (UK)
A leading mental-health charity offering information, guidance, and support services across the UK.
Visit their website for advice on mental-health conditions, practical tools, and where to find help in your area.
​
NHS Mental Health Support
The NHS provides a wide range of mental-health services, from crisis support to talking therapies.
If you’re worried about your mental health, you can contact your GP, use NHS 111, or explore NHS resources online.
​
Shout – Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258
A free, confidential text service providing support in a crisis.
If you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed, trained volunteers are available to help you through text conversations.
​
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
Offers support for anyone who is feeling down or in crisis, with a particular focus on preventing suicide.
Available via helpline and webchat.
Resource Library
Everyone’s mental-health journey is different, and sometimes the right information can make all the difference. Below is a collection of trusted resources; articles, tools, and guides designed to offer practical support, deeper understanding, and positive steps forward. Feel free to explore at your own pace.
Guides, Articles & Self-Help Tools
NHS – Self-Help Guide: Covers practical advice and exercises you can use yourself for managing anxiety, stress, low mood and more.
​
NHS “Urgent Support & Mental Health Services”: A guide to what to do in a mental-health crisis, how to access free talking therapies, or where to go if you need immediate help.
Mind (England & Wales) – Information & Advice: Comprehensive articles on common mental-health challenges (anxiety, depression, stress, etc.), how to support someone else, your rights, and where to seek help.
The Mental Health Foundation – Get Help & Resources: Offers research-informed advice and downloadable guides on mental-health problems and self-care strategies.
Crisis & Support Services
Samaritans – 24/7 Listening Service: Freephone 116 123 (UK). Always open — for when you need someone to listen, no matter what time it is.
Shout – 24/7 Mental-Health Text Support: Text SHOUT to 85258 any time, day or night, for confidential help via text.
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Offers helpline (0800 58 58 58) and web-chat support — especially aimed at supporting people in crisis or having suicidal thoughts.
Peer Support & Community
Mind’s “Side by Side” Online Community — a space where people share experiences, support each other, and feel heard.
Self-help worksheets, audio guides & tools — from NHS and The Mental Health Foundation, covering stress, anxiety, low mood, sleep, and wellbeing habits.
Need Help?
If things feel overwhelming, you can reach out immediately via Samaritans, Shout or CALM (see crisis contact info above).
If you’d like to connect with others who understand — try Mind’s online community.
If things get worse, or you’re in danger, call 999 or visit your nearest A&E.
Emergency Notice
If you are in immediate danger, feel unable to keep yourself safe, or need urgent help, call 999 or visit your nearest A&E right away.
For urgent medical advice when it’s not an emergency, you can also call NHS 111.